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The Week with Mark Sutcliffe
April 22, 2012
This Sunday, Mark welcomes two guests to discuss the week in national politics. Viewers are also welcome to contribute their thoughts about the big stories of the week. On the program: Elizabeth Thompson, Senior Political Writer for iPolitics.ca Bob Plamondon, Author and Public Policy Consultant Tune in, call in, and tweet in, this Sunday, to talk about: JET CONTROVERSY: An emergency meeting was held by the Commons Public Accounts Committee over the F-35 fighter jets and the omission of $10 billion in cost estimates. But after the meeting was over, the opposition accused government of a cover-up. What questions should the committee, and the public, be asking? And who needs to provide the answers? PRISON CLOSINGS: The Conservative government is shutting down the Kingston Penitentiary in Ontario and the Leclerc Institution in Quebec, claiming it will save $120 million annually. It is also closing a treatment centre. Government opposition and the union representing correctional officers are concerned about the impact. Is it the right decision to close these facilities? CHARTER ANNIVERSARY: The Liberals marked the 30th anniversary of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms with a fundraising event. The NDP and Conservatives issued news releases. Should the Harper government have done more to celebrate the occasion? What did its muted recognition of the milestone say about its views on the Charter? MERGER MUSINGS: Former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien continues to promote the concept of an NDP and Liberal party merger. Would a party that brings together both sides have traction with voters? And could the two parties reach agreement over their differences? ECONOMY BRIGHTENS BUT RISKS REMAIN: The Bank of Canada expects the economy to return to full capacity by early next year. Governor Mark Carney says business and household confidence is improving faster than expected. But he cautions that interest rates may rise. Should Canadians be worried about household debt and its effect on the economy? ALBERTA COUNTDOWN: The Wildrose Party could topple the Progressive Conservative’s long-standing hold on Alberta in this Monday’s provincial election. What would a Wildrose government mean for the province? And for the rest of Canada? ANYTHING ELSE: What are the national political stories that matter most to you this week?